Ayala Brut Majeur NV Champagne

#77 of Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2011, Ayala, founded in 1860 is one of the original Grand Marque Champagne houses. Located in the historic village of Ay where the renowned house of Bollinger also resides, Bollinger took over Ayala in 2005. In contrast to the robust house style of Bollinger, Ayala has a more elegant and fruity style with a higher percentage of Chardonnay in the blend (40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir and 20% Pinot Menieur). Thw Wine Spectator it scored it 92 points and made it a top 100 selection. Wine Enthusiast scored it 91 points saying "A beautifully balanced non-vintage, in the lighter style that is Ayala's hallmark. It is fresh, but shows a good amount of blend with older wines to give weight and complexity. The green fruit flavors are well balanced with secondary aromas of almonds, green berries and lively but not dominant acidity"